BREAKING: 5-star Arizona men’s basketball player decommits from program and join rival school

A  five-star guard in the 2025 class who is anticipated to reclassify to 2024, flipped his commitment from Arizona to ASU. His decision intensifies the in-state rivalry and adds an extra element of excitement as both teams prepare for their first season together in the Big 12 Conference.

The 6-foot-5  star, who 247Sports ranks as the 24th-best prospect in the country, initially committed to Arizona in March, just before the Wildcats’ first-round NCAA Tournament victory over Long Beach State. Since then, significant changes in the UA roster have likely influenced his decision to decommit.

On Wednesday, Arizona officially learned that Caleb Love, the Pac-12 Player of the Year, would return for a second season after withdrawing from the NBA Draft. Additionally, guard KJ Lewis had already decided to return, and guard Jaden Bradley is expected back after exploring the draft. The Wildcats have also added two wings from the NCAA transfer portal: Trey Townsend from Oakland and Anthony Dell’Orso from Campbell. This influx of players has created a crowded backcourt, which may have played a role in 4-star signee Jamari Phillips reportedly opting out of his commitment to Arizona.

 

Newest Arizona recruit Joson Sanon racing to reclassify so he can join  Wildcats next season

 

 

Assuming Bradley returns—despite not officially announcing his decision, his name simply appeared on the early entrants’ list—Arizona will have 11 scholarship players for the 2024-25 season. This leaves room for possibly adding another backup guard or bolstering the frontcourt depth, depending on the development of rising sophomore Conrad Martinez.

Amid this roster upheaval, Arizona coach Tommy Lloyd is also preparing Team USA’s U18 squad for the FIBA U18 Men’s AmeriCup in Argentina next week.

Sanon’s commitment to ASU adds to a significant offseason for the Sun Devils. They secured 5-star center Jayden Quaintance after he withdrew his national letter of intent following John Calipari’s move to Kentucky. ASU has also welcomed five transfers, including ex-USC power forward Brandon Gardner and former Ole Miss point guard Austin Nunez, who previously played for ASU and coach Bobby Hurley in 2022-23.

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